AMATEUR dramatics groups across the region are celebrating being nominated in the Oscars of local theatre.

The 2015 Rose Bowl Amateur Theatre nominations have been announced and include numerous groups in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire.

Chipping Sodbury’s the Sodbury Players have racked up two nominations for its sell-out pantomime Hansel and Gretel.

The raucous show, staged at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall in January, is up for a newly created Chris Harris award, in memory of the much-loved Bath pantomime dame, for best variety, revue or pantomime. It is also shortlisted to win the Walter Hawkins award for creativity and design for best set, costumes and make-up for the same show.

Also in Chipping Sodbury, Rachel Bosomworth from the Sodbury Vale Musical Comedy Club is shortlisted for best supporting actress in a musical for her role as Sukie in The Witches of Eastwick.

Thornbury Musical Theatre Group’s production of The Pied Piper is also up for the Chris Harris award as well as for the Manor printing award for best publicity material.

Northavon Youth Theatre Company has also been nominated for the lightning, sound and effects in its production of Sunshine on Leith under the Stage Electric’s award for technical achievement.

In all, there were 99 entries representing 42 amateur groups from across the South West.

The 19 winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony at The Webbington Hotel and Spa in Somerset on Sunday, October 18.